Claypot Rice

dinner • Singapore

580

kcal

25g

Protein

68g

Carbs

22g

Fat

✓ Verified by Singapore Calorie

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About Claypot Rice

Rice cooked in claypot with chicken, Chinese sausage, and dark soy sauce

How to Make Claypot Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)

Prep: 15 min

Cook: 20 min

2 servings

medium

Claypot Rice, or 'sha po fan,' is a beloved staple found in the bustling kopitiams and hawker centres across Singapore. This comforting one-pot meal showcases the multicultural essence of Singaporean cuisine, drawing influences from Chinese culinary traditions while adapting to local tastes and preferences. Each serving arrives bubbling hot in a claypot, releasing an aromatic medley of soy, sesame, and perfectly charred rice. The dish is often prepared to order, allowing the rice to develop a signature crispy base, while succulent chicken, Chinese sausage, and earthy mushrooms infuse every grain with flavour. Claypot Rice has become an iconic dinner choice, especially for families seeking a communal, hearty meal after a long day. Its appeal lies not just in the taste, but also in the theatre of presentation — lifting the lid to reveal steaming, fragrant rice is a moment cherished by Singaporeans. Modern versions often incorporate healthier ingredients, making it suitable for the calorie-conscious diner. Whether enjoyed at a traditional hawker stall or in a contemporary kitchen, Singapore Claypot Rice is a delicious testament to the nation's vibrant food culture, perfectly bridging tradition and innovation.

Diabetic-Friendly Weight Loss Kid-Friendly Vegan Adaptable

Allergens: soy, gluten

Ingredients(for 1 medium claypot bowl)

1 cup Jasmine rice (long-grain rice)
150g Skinless chicken thigh (cut into bite-size pieces)
2 tbsp Low-sodium light soy sauce
1 tsp Dark soy sauce
1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (optional for aroma) - optional
3 pieces Chinese dried shiitake mushrooms (soaked and sliced)
1/2 link Lap cheong (Chinese chicken sausage) (sliced thinly) - optional
1 cup Broccoli florets or nai bai (blanched for garnish)
1 tsp Sesame oil
1 stalk Spring onion (sliced, for garnish)
1 tsp Minced garlic
1/4 tsp White pepper

Instructions

1
Rinse rice thoroughly and soak for 15 minutes. Drain well. Prepare claypot by lightly oiling the base to prevent sticking.
5 minutes
Soaking rice ensures even cooking and a fluffy texture.
2
Marinate chicken with 1 tbsp light soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, Shaoxing wine (if using), and white pepper for at least 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Marinating enhances flavour and tenderises the chicken.
3
Add soaked rice and 1.1 cups water to the claypot. Cook, covered, over medium heat for 8 minutes until water is mostly absorbed.
8 minutes
Resist stirring the rice to achieve a crispy bottom crust.
4
Arrange marinated chicken, mushrooms, and lap cheong evenly atop the rice. Drizzle with remaining light and dark soy sauce.
2 minutes
Layer ingredients gently to avoid disturbing the rice crust.

Why This Dish is Healthy

Unlike traditional recipes that use fatty meats and excess oil, this version uses skinless chicken and limits lap cheong, reducing saturated fat and calories. Steaming with minimal oil and including vegetables makes it heart-friendly and suitable for calorie-conscious eaters. It’s a wholesome one-pot meal, making healthy eating easy without compromising authentic Singaporean taste.

This healthy Claypot Rice recipe is balanced in protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Chicken thigh offers lean protein essential for muscle repair, while mushrooms provide antioxidants and dietary fibre. Using low-sodium soy sauce helps manage sodium intake, and adding broccoli or nai bai boosts the vitamin C, folate, and mineral content. The use of jasmine rice provides energy but can be swapped with brown rice for extra fibre. This meal is rich in B vitamins, iron, and beneficial plant compounds.

Pro Tips

💡Tip 1: Use a heavy claypot for best heat retention and a perfect crispy rice crust.
💡Tip 2: Soak mushrooms in hot water until soft for deeper flavour.
💡Tip 3: Add a dash of sesame oil just before serving for an authentic aroma.

Storage & Serving

Cool leftovers to room temperature before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a microwave or steam gently to preserve texture. Avoid freezing as rice may become mushy.

Best served: Dinner